Replaced batteries, 8800 backlight now dead

[jetstar52]

Title tells (nearly) all. I replaced the batteries on my 8800 because of a dim backlight and dim LCD display. Now, the backlight is not working. Tried MFG RESET, tried uploading last configuration from ir, tried the "scrambled keys" fix. Light still not working. There's no "buzz" from the inverter, either.

Any bright ideas (other than, "get a new remote")?

[The Robman]

If your model is the B00 version, the backlight failure is a very common problem and was un-related to the battery change. The probem is the backlight sheet itself, which is a custom part so the only way to replace it is to get one from another remote, preferably a B01 version.

[jetstar52]

Thanks for your quick response. It's a B01.

[The Robman]

If it's the B01, the backlight sheet should be good. Therefore, the next suggestion that I have is the backlight transformer. If you open up the remote, the transformer is the biggest part on the PCB. It's the big black part with yellow sides in this picture...

.

These things normally hum a little when the backlight is on, if yours doesn't hum, maybe it's broken. You can get a replacement PX13193-H Transformer from Hovis Direct for $5.

[jetstar52]

Thanks. For $5, it's worth a shot.

Mmmm...the smell of flux....

[jetstar52]

Once I got the new transformer, I popped open the 8800, looked at the PCB, and decided not to fool with it! However, after re-assembling the remote, I tried powering it with 3 v. I got a low batt warning, but the EL panel lit up! Tried the same with 4.5 v, then the full 6 v. The EL panel continued to work. So now all is well, but I still have no idea what made the EL panel stop working. Gremlins?

[The Robman]

And you now have a spare transformer just in case it does break.

[jetstar52]

More likely: the cats have a new toy.